Posted on 03/04/2014 3:26:13 PM PST by bkopto
United Airlines is getting tough on passengers with oversized carry-on bags, even sending some of them back to the ticket counter to check their luggage for a fee.
The Chicago-based airline has started a push to better enforce rules restricting the size of carry-on bags — an effort that will include instructing workers at security checkpoint entrances to eyeball passengers for bags that are too big.
In recent weeks, United has rolled out new bag-sizing boxes at most airports and sent an email to frequent fliers, reminding them of the rules. An internal employee newsletter called the program a "renewed focus on carry-on compliance."
The size limits on carry-on bags have been in place for years, but airlines have enforced them inconsistently, rarely conducting anything beyond occasional spot checks.
United says its new approach will ensure that bags are reliably reviewed at the security checkpoint, in addition to the bag checks already done at gates prior to boarding.
Passengers are typically allowed one carry-on bag to fit in the overhead bin, which can be no larger than 9 inches by 14 inches by 22 inches. Fliers can also bring one personal item such as a purse or laptop bag that fits under the seat in front of them.
People flying with oversized bags can have the suitcase checked for free at the gate, a longstanding practice. But those who get halted at the entrance to security must now go back to the ticket counter and pay the airline's $25 checked-luggage fee.
Some travelers suggest the crackdown is part of a larger attempt by United to collect more fees. The airline says it's simply ensuring that compliant passengers have space left for them in the overhead bins.
(Excerpt) Read more at breitbart.com ...
I fly frequently and am always frustrated when I am assigned a late zone, and there is no space for my carry on which fits the description in the security screening area.
So many people think “sardine class”, is first class, and the bins are available on a first come basis. I am 6’3” tall and the space under the seat is valuable real estate to me as is the isle if I can get it.
Makes flying miserable when you have to deal with the entitled and inconsiderate, which are usually one in the same.
I hope they're still good... I'm going on them to Amsterdam and then to Zambia in August.
We loved flying Continental. Top notch, all the way. When they merged with United, we had some flight attendants (on a flight during the merger) tell us that rather than United raising up to the Continental bar, Continental would be lowering to the United bar :(
Regardless...nothing is more frustrating than seeing folks trying to stuff a size 12 carry on into a size 6 overhead bin :)
It’s been a few years for us to have flown on KLM, so I hope they have maintained their standards, too.
Have a safe and fun trip!
“Regardless...nothing is more frustrating than seeing folks trying to stuff a size 12 carry on into a size 6 overhead bin :)”
I can’t argue that point at all. However, I would rather take a tramp steamer to Europe than board the UNITED cattle-car again. That and the “service”, such as it was, delivered by rude and bitchy staff was totally unacceptable. Never again.
thanks
Let us know how KLM did when y’all return, okay? :-)
I’ll try to remember... Aug is a long ways off unfortunately!
LOL!
I know what you mean!
CRS/CRAFT is my playground! :-)
Amen to that!
The bags have more room in the overhead compartment then I do in my tiny 17” wide seat with the seat ahead of me pushed back so far I cannot stand up right. If I could I would ride in the overhead compartment!
I’m with United on this. So tired of all the delays when half the passengers try to bring on giant bags.
I fly every two weeks. The grocery bag lady is on every flight. It is usually an older woman with a huge wool sweater, unkempt clothing, and poor hygeine. I imagine the grocery bag people read a budget travel blog that recommends bringing your own food. Blankets, sweaters, scarves, pillows, food, all billowing out of bags.
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